**Residing in London: A Nine-Month Evaluation**
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Nine months prior, I commenced my adventure of residing in London. Though it may not appear as an extensive duration, it has proven sufficient for me to uncover essential perspectives on life in this lively and multifaceted metropolis. London showcases not just a vast array of housing choices but also a rich mix of communities that render the city remarkably distinctive. For students, the options are plentiful, encompassing student residences and private lodgings, featuring amenities such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For home students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple, while international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to assess housing online. These resources furnish information about facilities and closeness to public transport, enhancing the ease of the search.
### Discovering the Ideal Place to Reside
When I initiated my quest for accommodation, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. My aim was to be in proximity to key landmarks, social hotspots, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most pivotal. The city’s remarkable transportation system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement across these zones effortlessly.
Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily expenses amounting to £5.25. To economize, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. For university travels, oyster card options considerably diminish travel expenses. Moreover, services like London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. While fares for these services fluctuate, they offer a wider reach for individuals residing farther from the downtown area.
Residency in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails increased living expenses. To mitigate this, I opted to share a room with a friend who was concurrently attending university. This arrangement enabled us to save considerably on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, as I was eager to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—an encounter that would have been more challenging in private housing.
### Closeness to Necessities
For me, being near grocery stores was a crucial factor. Common supermarkets in London include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also exist. Being located adjacent to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is extremely advantageous, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
### Discovering London’s Multifarious Communities
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be a daunting choice, given the city’s cultural heterogeneity. London’s ethnic communities comprise a vital element of its character, presenting a broad array of neighborhoods to investigate. Many international students are drawn to areas that offer a sense of familiarity and ties to their native countries.
For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods exemplify just a fraction of the cultural wealth that London provides.
### Concluding Thoughts
The most suitable area to reside in London ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new residence or merely exploring the city, London’s varied housing options and cultural pockets offer something for everyone. Embrace the dynamism, convenience, and thrill of this extraordinary city—it’s an experience unlike any other.
*By Guest Blogger*
*Categorized under: Uncategorized*
*Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s*